Campbell's B game keeps him in contention

SUTTON COLDFIELD, England, May 12 (Reuters) US Open champion Michael Campbell stayed in contention for the British Masters today despite a lack of practice and a head cold.

The New Zealander, in his first week back after a month lay-off, carded a two-under-par 70 in his second round to join early clubhouse leader Ian Poulter on seven under.

''Today was a reflection of not playing much at all, I hit a few stray shots,'' said Campbell, who has spent his time relaxing in Australia after playing the U.S. Masters last month.

''That cost me a few bogeys but besides that, it's nice to go out and play a B game the last couple of days and have a chance to win.

There's a long way to go but I know I'm going in the right direction.'' Northern Irishman Graeme McDowell surged into a share of third place with a hole in one three holes from home for a 68 to move to six under.

McDowell, who cited a return to his coach Butch Harmon for his recent improved form, said he was so excited by his ace that his mind was not fully on the job when he bogeyed the eighth hole, his 17th, to deny himself a share of the lead.

Former British Amateur champion Graeme Storm equalled the course record 64 to lie third. Overnight joint leader Peter Hanson bogeyed the last to drop back to third place with a 72.

REUTERS DH BD2001